EJD-WHO Academy 2024

This event united junior doctors and WHO-Europe experts to address pressing health workforce challenges as part of WHO’s engagement with Non-State Actors. Here’s a look at some of the Academy’s key sessions and insights

Session 1: State of the Workforce in Europe 2024
Dr. Tomas Zapata described the ongoing health workforce crisis as a “ticking time bomb.” Despite increasing numbers of healthcare professionals, challenges such as an ageing workforce, migration, and mental health issues are straining recruitment and retention efforts. Discussions included:
- The Framework for Action 2023-2030 and its implementation across countries.
- WHO-Europe’s role in workforce strategy and leadership training to support national efforts.
- Junior doctors’ perspectives on these processes.
Dr. Sulakshana Nandi shared insights on NSA engagement plans and workforce developments in health and care.

Session 2: Mental Health of the Health Workforce
Mental health expert Cassie Redlich introduced WHO’s survey on the mental health of doctors and nurses across the EU, Norway, and Iceland. Delegates shared national mental health initiatives, highlighting:
- Peer support and mental health awareness campaigns.
- Proactive support networks addressing mental health challenges.
- The need for cultural change in healthcare to prioritize well-being, especially for younger professionals.

Session 3: Healthier Teams, Safer Care – Bridging Quality of Care and Workforce
Dr. Válter R. Fonseca and expert Lenio Capsaskis led an engaging session on patient safety and quality of care, exploring:
- Whole-system approaches to quality improvement.
- The role of data collection and accountability in promoting safer care.
- Evolving standards for patient safety that focus on people-centered healthcare.

Session 4: Optimization in Healthcare
Dr. Cathal Morgan facilitated group discussions on optimizing healthcare professionals' work through strategies such as:
- Redefining clinical pathways.
- Harnessing digital transformation.
- Enhancing healthcare workforce leadership.

Commitment to Healthier Teams and Safer Care
This Academy reaffirmed our dedication to collaborating with WHO-Europe to tackle workforce challenges and promote sustainable healthcare practices across Europe.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Together, we are driving progress toward a stronger, more resilient health workforce.